**Matna Foods Partners Ondo Government to Empower Youths, Women in Agriculture** In a significant move to boost economic growth and job creation in Ondo State, Matna Foods Company Limited has entered into a strategic partnership with the state government's Ministries of Agriculture, Women Affairs, and Youth and Sports Development. The partnership is aimed at empowering 3,000 young outgrower farmers in the cassava value chain through the Women in Sourcing and Enterprise (WISE) Program. This initiative is designed to create long-term economic value while strengthening local agricultural supply chains. Speaking at the launch event, the Managing Director of Matna Foods Company Limited, Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, emphasized the importance of building a sustainable ecosystem that empowers farmers and ensures reliable feedstock for agro-processing. He noted that by connecting young farmers directly to structured markets, they are creating jobs and laying the foundation for inclusive agricultural growth that benefits communities across Ondo State. The partnership has been welcomed by the Ondo State government, with the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Olaleye Akinola, highlighting the importance of collaborations between government and private sector investors in expanding agricultural production and supporting farmers. Similarly, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Seun Bosede Osamaye, commended Matna Foods for prioritizing women and vulnerable groups in its empowerment initiatives. She noted that programs like WISE create meaningful opportunities for women to achieve economic independence and contribute to the development of their communities. This partnership is a significant step towards achieving the Federal Government's goal of boosting agricultural production and creating jobs in Nigeria. With Ondo State being one of the leading producers of cassava in the country, this initiative has the potential to create a significant impact on the state's agricultural sector and the economy as a whole. By empowering young farmers, particularly women, Matna Foods is contributing to the development of a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector in Nigeria. This initiative is a shining example of public-private partnership in action, and we hope to see more collaborations like this in the future.